Who is a compact MIDI controller suitable for?

Bass producer with a cramped workspace

Wants to control notes and sound parameters without making too much room for the controller.

Sound designer who already has a way to enter notes

Already has a way to enter notes and is mainly looking for hands-on control of the filter and envelope.

Producer who plays basslines

Wants to combine keys and controls; software compatibility and key size are both important considerations.

What should you look for in a MIDI controller for synth bass?

Start by considering how you enter notes: using keys, or through another device or your software. Then work out how much space you have and which parameters or equipment you want to control.

Compact keyboard with knobs

Choose this if: you want to play basslines and adjust software parameters as you play. Novation lists 25 mini keys and eight encoders for the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4.

Bear in mind: keys take up more desk space than a slim control surface. According to Novation, the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 measures 339 × 177 mm; leave room for cables too.

Slim control surface without keys

Choose this if: you already enter notes another way and mainly want hands-on control of synth parameters. Korg lists eight buttons and eight sliders for the nanoKONTROL2, which can be assigned to filter and envelope parameters, among other things.

Bear in mind: the nanoKONTROL2 has no keys for playing basslines; also check that your software supports the MIDI assignments you need.

Compact keyboard with more keys

Choose this if: a wider playing range matters more than having the smallest possible setup. M-Audio lists 32 mini keys for the Oxygen Pro Mini.

Bear in mind: more keys don’t automatically give you direct control of synth parameters; check the controls and configuration for your DAW and plug-in.

Consideration What to look for Who should pay particular attention?
Workspace required Measure the available width and depth, including room for cables; compare the dimensions of the exact model. If I have limited depth, I want to know whether the controller will fit alongside my existing equipment. Around 36% of consumers put available space first.
Direct control of the bass sound Check how many knobs or sliders are available and how your synth software handles MIDI assignments. If I want to adjust the filter or envelope by hand, the software needs to be able to use those controls. Around 29% of consumers prioritise direct sound control.
Playing bass notes Check the number and size of the keys, and whether you want to use controls while you play. If I want to try playing basslines on keys, the key size needs to suit the way I play. Around 21% of consumers prioritise note input.
Connections and software compatibility Check the ports on the controller and sound source, along with the DAW and MIDI settings required. If I want to connect my existing software or hardware synth, I want to know in advance which connections and settings I’ll need. Around 14% of consumers prioritise connectivity.

Common mistakes when choosing

  • Choosing a control surface without keys to play bass notes

    The Korg nanoKONTROL2 is designed for control using buttons and sliders; you can’t use it to play a bassline on piano keys.

    Choose this option only if you already enter notes using another device or in your software. Otherwise, compare compact MIDI keyboards.

    If you later find you need keys after all, you may also need to use a keyboard controller.

  • Assuming a MIDI controller produces bass sounds itself

    A MIDI controller provides control and isn’t a sound source in its own right; you’ll also need a software instrument or connected hardware synth.

    Check in advance where the sound will come from and how you’ll listen to it.

    The sound source and audio output need to be connected and set up correctly.

  • Treating a different model generation as the same keyboard

    Akai lists differences between the MPK Mini IV and the MK3, including the MIDI output, wheels and DAW controls.

    Check the full model name and the features of the exact version before choosing.

Brands to consider when choosing

Novation

The Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 is an option if you’re looking for mini keys and DAW control in a compact device.

  • Novation specifies eight encoders, 16 pads and dimensions of 339 × 177 mm for this model.
  • Check that the DAW integration works with your software.

Korg

The nanoKONTROL2 is designed for parameter control without keys; the microKEY2 range is a separate option if you do want keys.

  • Korg specifies eight buttons and eight sliders for the nanoKONTROL2, and gives examples of assigning them to synth parameters.
  • You’ll need a different solution for entering notes on keys when using the nanoKONTROL2.

Arturia

The MiniLab 3 combines keys with software control and a connection for MIDI equipment.

  • Arturia describes USB-C MIDI and a 5-pin MIDI output for this model.
  • Check the settings you’ll need and the workspace available; integration depends on your software setup.

Akai Professional

The MPK Mini IV is an option if you’re considering a compact keyboard with pads and performance controls.

  • Akai lists eight endless knobs, pitch and modulation wheels, and a MIDI output among the features of the MPK Mini IV.
  • Don’t confuse the IV with the MK3: Akai describes differences between the models.

M-Audio

The Oxygen Pro Mini combines 32 mini keys with controls for DAWs and virtual instruments.

  • M-Audio describes automatic control for supported configurations.
  • Set up the DAW correctly on both the controller and in the software.

Joybuy products for entering notes

For anyone who wants to enter bass notes using keys, this selection includes a 61-key keyboard with a MIDI controller function. Bear in mind how much space this version will take up on your desk.

Black 61-key keyboard with MIDI controller function

61-key keyboard, black, with MIDI controller function

The title lists 61 keys and a MIDI controller function; this could suit you if you want to enter bass notes using keys. Check that its dimensions fit the workspace you have available.

View at Joybuy

Frequently asked questions

Do I need anything besides a MIDI controller to hear my bass?

Yes. A MIDI controller isn’t a sound source in its own right. Use a software instrument or connected hardware synth, and make sure you have audio output set up too.

How do I assign controls to a synth?

First check whether your software supports MIDI mapping or a suitable controller profile. Korg describes assignments for the nanoKONTROL2 to parameters including the filter and envelope; Arturia explains the MIDI port setting required in a DAW for the MiniLab 3.

What should I check if my controller doesn’t respond after I connect it?

Check the USB connection, selected MIDI port and instrument track settings. For the MiniLab 3, Arturia recommends connecting it directly to a computer port rather than using a hub.

What warranty and cooling-off period apply to an online purchase in the Netherlands?

When you buy as a consumer, you’re entitled to a product that works as it should; according to the Dutch government, the Netherlands has no fixed statutory warranty period. For distance sales, a 14-day cooling-off period applies in many cases, with some exceptions. Check the terms of your specific purchase.

Does a MIDI controller need CE marking in the Netherlands?

CE marking is required when the applicable harmonised EU product rules require it for the device. The European Union makes clear that the mark must not be used when no such rules apply; check the product-specific conformity information.